A Complete Guide to Adi Kailash Yatra Registration

Adi Kailash Yatra registration is mandatory for every pilgrim to get the necessary permits and health clearance for this spiritually significant but physically demanding pilgrimage. If you are planning your Adi Kailash Yatra in 2026, then this comprehensive guide will help you. Find the complete information on how to register for Adi Kailash Yatra 2026 and additional packing and safety tips for the yatra.

Everything to Know About Adi Kailash Yatra

Adi Kailash is a sacred mountain located in the Pithoragarh District of Uttarakhand, resembling the Mighty Mount Kailash in Tibet. It is considered to be the dwelling place of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Being a replica of the Kailash Parvat, Adi Kailash is known as “Chhota Kailash” (Little Kailash). Due to its spiritual significance in Hindu mythology, thousands of devotees undertake the Adi Kailash pilgrimage. A visit to Adi Kailash peak not only offers spiritual solace but also the opportunity to see the breathtaking views of Om Parvat, Gauri Kund, and Parvati Sarovar/Tal.

The sacred peak of Adi Kailash is located on the India-Tibet border in Uttarakhand, so special permits are required to visit it. People undertake this pilgrimage to reach the base of Adi Kailash, a sacred peak revered as the abode of Lord Shiva. During the journey, pilgrims witness the majestic peak of Adi Kailash, also known as Chhota Kailash, the ‘Om’ symbol on Om Parvat, and the serene glacial lake called Parvati Sarovar.

Spiritual Significance of Adi Kailash Yatra

Adi Kailash is one of the five most sacred peaks in the world, collectively known as Panch Kailasha and associated with Lord Shiva. It is the second most revered peak of the Panch Kailasha and a famous Hindu pilgrimage destination in India. According to Hindu legend, it is the earthly abode of Lord Shiva, where he resides with his wife, Parvati.  It is believed that Lord Shiva and Parvati meditated here. Some say it is the main stop for Lord Shiva and Parvati on their way to Triyunginarayan for their marriage.

There are also some mythological stories associated with this sacred peak, making it spiritually significant for devotees of Lord Shiva.

• Ravana’s Penance: Legend has it that the demon king Ravana carried out rigorous penance on this sacred site to gain immense strength from Lord Shiva.
• Testing of Mata Parvati’s devotion: When Goddess Parvati wanted to marry, and Shiva did not, as he was too invested in his spiritual pursuits, then he asked Parvati to complete a few tasks to test her devotion and true feelings for him. There is even a lake believed to be the bathing place of Mata Parvati. Thus, it is named Parvati Sarovar.
• Divine Form of Lord Shiva and His Cosmic Dance: It is the same place where Lord Shiva revealed his divine form to the sage Ashtavakra and performed the cosmic dance, called Tandava.
• Pandavas’ Connection: The Pandav brothers and their wife Draupadi meditated here during their exile period with sage Vyasa.

Who Can Participate in Adi Kailash Yatra 2026

The Adi Kailash Yatra takes place on the Indo-Tibetan border, in high-altitude terrain and with unpredictable Himalayan weather. For this, special permits and health clearance are mandatory for every pilgrim.

Anyone who wants to undertake the spiritual journey of Chhota Kailash in Uttarakhand must be an Indian citizen and carry a valid government-issued ID, such as an Aadhaar card, Passport, Voter ID, or Driving license. Every pilgrim must meet the criteria set by the government of India to participate in this pilgrimage.

Here are the different criteria set for pilgrims based on their:

• Age: Well, the age guidelines include pilgrims of any age from 7 to 80 years old. But the tour operators set the limit to 9 years to 70 years old.
• Trekking experience: Although trekking experience is preferred, first-timers are also welcome. The route includes trekking on high-altitude terrain, but thanks to its motorable roads, it makes the journey easier for pilgrims.
• Physical health condition: One should be physically fit to undertake this journey. Ensure you have sufficient stamina to cover a 5 km distance by jogging in just 40 minutes without any stress. Or, it can cover 10 km in 90 minutes. For cycling, you must cover an 8 km distance in just 30 minutes. Your BMI should be in the normal range of 18-29.

Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra Opening Dates in 2026

Like every year, the opening time for Adi Kailash Yatra 2026 will begin in mid-May due to the good weather conditions. The pilgrimage ends in late October or early November because the snowfall starts, and the extreme weather conditions are not safe for humans. Most registered tour operators start early departures in mid-May, which continues to June, September, and October with several departure windows.

If you want to undertake this spiritual journey, book the Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra tour package from a reliable tour operator, like us. Travel agencies in India registered for planning Adi Kailash Yatra offer a complete tour package, which includes accommodations, transport, meals, and sightseeing. Everything depends on the type of package you have booked and your specific desires.

Since the slots get booked fast, you should book your tour package as early as possible to ensure your slot, and you will get enough time for preparation.

Adi Kailash Yatra Registration

Adi Kailash is situated at a high altitude of 5945 metres above sea level, and due to its proximity to the international border and its location in a restricted area, pilgrims are required to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) from the government to visit this area. For this, you will have to register yourself by providing essential documents and get the permit.

The permit process is done in Dharchula at the SDM Office, or you can do this online by visiting the official Pithoragarh District portal. Either you can do it yourself, or your tour operators can assist in getting the Inner Line permit.

Important Documents Required for Adi Kailash Yatra Permit

Here is a list of the important documents that you will submit to get the Inner Line Permit for the Chhota Kailash Yatra in Uttarakhand:

• ID Proof: Any government-issued ID, such as Voter ID, Passport, Aadhaar Card, or Driving License.
• Address Proof: The same document can work if it includes your home address.
• Passport-size photos: At least 2-4 copies of your current photos.
• Emergency contact details: Your phone number as well as local contact information.

Adi Kailash Yatra Inner Line Permit Process

Pilgrims can apply for the ILP online and offline. Here is a step-by-step guide for the Inner Line Permit for Adi Kailash Yatra:

Online Permit Process

• Visit the official portal of Pithoragarh District, which is often linked with official Uttarakhand Tourism or local admin sites. You will have to register or create a new account on the portal.
• The next step is to enter all the details, like travel dates, routes, and contact numbers.
• Now, upload the important documents, such as a valid ID proof, passport-size photos, medical certificate, and Affidavit.
• Make an online payment for the permit fees, which is a nominal price of Rs. 150 -200. After payment, you will get a receipt. Keep it safe for future use.
• The authorities will receive your application with the attached scanned documents. They will verify the documents and may even cross-check them with local police. Only after this, you will receive the Inner Line Permit for the Adi Kailash Yatra.

Offline Permit Process

• Visit the SDM’s office in Dharchula to collect the ILP form.
• Fill out the form by entering all your details, like name, age, and phone number. You will also have to mention the travel date, route, number of travelers, their ages, and other important details.
• Visit the local police station for verification. Along with the filled application, you will submit all the essential documents, including valid ID proof, address proof, and photos. Once the verification is completed, the police personnel will provide you with a certificate.
• Next, acquire the medical certificate from the government hospital in Dharchula or your hometown. This ensures you are physically fit to undertake this physically demanding trek.
• Submit your application along with the police verification certificate and medical certificate.
• Pay the registration/permit fees at the office either in cash or online (if available). Collect your payment receipt and keep it safe.
• Wait for one or two days to get your permit, as the authorities will verify your documents for security clearance. Once they check and verify all your details, your permit will be generated.
• Collect your Inner Line Permit for the Adi Kailash Yatra, which you get within one or two days of approval. Keep a few copies of the permit, as you will have to show it at multiple checkpoints during the journey.

Important Note: You can also do police verification in your hometown, but make sure the certificate you get is not older than 15 days when you submit the ILP application. You can also get the medical certificate from a government hospital in your hometown.

Inner Line Permit Fees for Adi Kailash Yatra

People who are planning their pilgrimage to Adi Kailash in Uttarakhand wonder if the registration process includes a fee. Well, for the popular Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, do not include any registration fees, and the permits are free of cost. But, for the Adi Kailash Yatra, you pay a nominal fee for the permit. However, the charges may vary depending on the local administration and the season. Here is the general breakdown of the rates:

• Inner Line Permit Fees: Rs 150 to Rs 250 per person, approximately.
• Service charges: If you are applying through a tour operator or agent, you will pay a small administrative or processing fee.
• Environmental or Entry fees: Rs. 50 to Rs. 100 (not compulsory)

Validity and Rules of Inner Line Permit for Adi Kailash Yatra

Collecting your ILP (Inner Line Permit) is not enough; you must know the rules associated with it for a better travel experience. Here’s what you should know:

• Your Inner Line Permit will be valid only for the travel date you mentioned in the application form. Traveling before or after the mentioned date is not valid.
• You can only visit the locations that are covered by the ILP, which are Gunji, Nabhi, Kuti, and Jolingkong, along with the Adi Kailash Yatra route.
• During the yatra with your group, you must carry the ILP with you all the time, so that when the army, ITBP, and local police ask for the permit, you can easily show them and get the clearance to move forward.
• Traveling outside the permitted villages is not allowed.

Important Points to Keep in Mind

• You must be an Indian, as permits won’t be issued to NRIs and foreign nationals.
• Make sure to write your official name in the application and not your nickname.
• While planning for the permit process, make sure to visit the SDM Office on any working day, as the SDM Office remains closed on National Holidays and Sundays.
• Only private vehicles and 4X4 SUVs are allowed past Dharchula.
• No commercial vehicles from other cities and states are allowed after Dharchula. Only locals of Dharchula can take their private vehicles to Adi Kailash.
• Check the weather forecast before choosing the travel date. Make sure to choose the best time to visit Adi Kailash, considering the weather conditions are favorable for trekking and traveling. Also, check the weather before you depart from Dharchula.
• Avoid traveling if the weather is not favorable.
• Get multiple copies of your Inner Line Permit and keep it with you every time during the journey, as it will be checked multiple times at different army posts.

FAQs on Inner Line Permit for Adi Kailash Yatra

Q. Are foreigners allowed to apply for the Inner Line Permit?

No, foreign nationals and NRIs are not allowed to apply for the ILP. It is only issued to Indians.

Q. Does ILP cover Om Parvat, or do I need to get a separate permit for it?

Yes, ILP covers OM Parvat as well because it comes under the same route of Adi Kailash Yatra. So, you don’t have to get a separate permit for Om Parvat.

Q. Can the validity of the ILP be extended?

No, you cannot extend the validity of the ILP you received. If you want, you will have to apply for a new ILP for the extended travel dates.

Q. Is a medical certificate compulsory?

Yes, a medical certificate is compulsory for the Adi Kailash Yatra, ensuring you are physically and mentally fit to undertake the high-altitude journey.

Q. How long in advance should I apply for the Inner Line Permit?

You should apply for the ILP at least 7-10 days before your travel date, as it may take a few days to get the approval from the SDM Dharchula for the ILP.

Travel Tips for Adi Kailash Yatra

Most travelers undertaking the Adi Kailash Yatra are first-timers. Pilgrims who cannot undertake the arduous journey to the Main Kailash Parvat visit Adi Kailash, which is an alternative to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Although this pilgrimage is less challenging, thanks to its motorable routes, being in good physical condition is still required.

Adi Kailash Yatra is not only spiritually rewarding but also an awe-inspiring pilgrimage offering the stunning Himalayan vistas. If you are planning your Adi Kailash Yatra, here is what you must consider.

Best Time to Visit Adi Kailash

The best time to visit Adi Kailash is between May and October. This is the time when the climate is best for trekking and travelling with bright sunny days and moderate temperatures. Avoid planning your trip during the monsoon season from July to August and the winter season from November to April. During these seasons, heavy rainfall and snowfall block the roads.

Before planning your trip, check the weather forecast and choose the right time that is favorable for travelling. The weather is quite unpredictable in the region, so you will have to be ready for sudden rain showers and cold temperatures.

Physical Fitness for the Yatra

You must be physically fit for the journey as it is going to take place at a high altitude of 5954 metres. The trek is intense and needs preparation. So, you must focus on your muscle strength as well as breathing to ensure you don’t feel any problems while trekking.

• Start doing basic exercises like walking, jogging, and climbing stairs.
• Include cardio exercise in your daily routine one to two months before your traveling date, such as cycling, running, and swimming.
• For strength, do core and leg-focused workouts.
• Spend a day in Gunji or a nearby village to acclimate. Also, focus on a slow ascent to avoid altitude sickness.

What to Pack for the Yatra

Adi Kailash Yatra takes place at a high altitude, which is an inhospitable area with less tourism architecture, and even the weather is unpredictable. Hence, you should be well-prepared for the Adi Kailash trek by packing all the essentials listed below:

• Layered warm clothes, including thermal wear, gloves, caps, socks, t-shirts, a sweater, and a jacket.
• Trekking boots or comfortable shoes.
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Backpack, sleeping bag, and trekking poles.
• A first-aid kit with your regular medications.
• Water bottles, snacks, energy drinks & bars.
• Toiletries and personal hygiene items.
• Power banks, charger, torch, and camera.
• Valid ID proof, medical certificate, and permits.

Safety Tips for Travelers

For a safe Adi Kailash Pilgrimage, it is essential to adhere to the safety rules and guidelines of the government. We also have some advice and safety tips for our travelers to enjoy a safe and memorable Adi Kailash Yatra:

• Get acclimatized: Do not rush and try to complete your Yatra fast. Have buffer days in your hand, and spend some time in Dharchula and the mid-route village for acclimatization. This prevents altitude sickness.
• Go slow: Slow ascent is vital to prevent altitude sickness. So, avoid overexertion and complete the journey at your own pace. Take rest whenever needed.
• Stay hydrated: Most pilgrims do not understand the importance of staying hydrated during a high-altitude exertion, but this prevents you from falling sick. Even helps in breathing properly. Drink plenty of water even when you don’t feel thirsty.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking: Do not smoke or drink alcohol, as they will affect your health, especially at high altitude.
• Watch for Symptoms: Do not overlook the symptoms of altitude motion sickness, which include nausea, headaches, and breathlessness.
• Respect nature: Respect local customs and traditions. Do not harm nature by littering. Take everything back with you.
• Book a tour package: When planning your trip with a reliable tour operator, you do not face any challenges during the trip or after. Everything from getting the permit to making the journey hassle-free, you get complete assistance from your tour operator. So, consider booking the Adi Kailash yatra tour package.

Conclusion

The Adi Kailash and Om Parvat Yatra is not only a spiritual enlightenment for devotees of lord Shiva, but it is a life-changing experience that connects you with your inner self, nature, and mythology. The journey might feel arduous, but with the right preparation and guidance, it becomes a blissful journey that stays in your memory forever.

Explore the sacred site of Adi Kailash and Om Parvat with us by booking our popular Adi Kailash Yatra and Adi Kailash Yatra by helicopter tour packages. The highlights of the journey include visiting the tranquil villages in Uttarakhand near Adi Kailash Parvat as well as visiting the sacred peaks of Om Parvat and Adi Kailash. Along with this, you will see the top attractions of Adi Kailash Yatra, such as Parvati Sarovar, Gauri Kund, Pandav Fort, and Kuti Village.

Apart from the spiritual and historical significance of Adi Kailash, the natural beauty of the region captivates travelers. The entire route of the Adi Kailash Yatra, with snow-capped peaks, lush greenery, sparkling rivers, and their confluences, makes a surreal and captivating scene. This makes the Adi Kailash Yatra truly unforgettable and worth visiting.